I stay in Portland at least four times a year, and this was my first stay at the RI Downtown River Place. Here is a rundown of my experience. There was a minor glitch with the hotel's reservation system at check in, but Philip fixed it and got us situated in just a few minutes. The hotel didn't have much of a view, but if you want to look over the Willamette and traffic on the bridge, it is just your thing. See my notes on picking a room with a view under tips.
The room was a king suite with a fold out sofa. It was spotless, modern, and had absolutely everything to feel at home instantly. The fridge was almost full size, kitchen well stocked with utensils, dishes, towels, cooking instruments, etc. The two tv's were LCD and worked great. The cable is expanded, so you're not stuck watching only sports and news channels like so many other hotels. The bed was nice, but not pillow top, and it was a little firm for my liking. However, I like soft beds. The person who slept in the room on the sofa bed said it was fine, and had a full mattress that was comfortable.
The bathroom was kind of small, but the shower and commode are in a separate room from the mirror and vanity, so it worked for our party. The shower was awesome, water pressure excellent, and the hot water never ran out. The only real complaint about the bathroom that all of us had was the soap. It smelled disgusting. I could not figure it out. You would think the Marriott chain could afford basic, good smelling soaps. Instead, the soap smells like rancid grease, and it leaves your body feeling really dirty and smelling funny. I have experienced this same soap at other RI's. I highly recommend you bring your own soap from home if you stay here.
The pool, weights, and running machines are all located on the second floor, and they are in excellent shape, and clean. The hot tub was barely hat though, and it needed to be at least two degrees warmer.
The hotel serves a hot breakfast with different combinations of eggs, meats, and potatoes every day. There is an OK selection of fruit, but it could be more expanded. However, the waffle bar, breads, cereals, and beverages were all very good. The coffee was exceptionally good, and the staff are truly warm and attentive.
Finally, and perhaps the weakest part of the hotel, is the location. If you looking for a place within easy walking distance to the hub of downtown offices, restaurants, museums, and clubs, this hotel is not it. It appears there is a trolley that you can take downtown right outside the hotel, but they were working on the line and it was not running during the time we stayed there. If it is ever running, you could probably get downtown very easily, but check with the hotel first if you need to get downtown and have to walk. It is only about a mile and half, but in rainy weather, with no pacific rain gear, you might find the commute to be a burden.
Having said all that, if you are looking for a place that provides a great retreat and all the makings of a home away from home, the RI at River Place is a real score for value and amenities. There is a lot more to it than meets the eye.
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